Earlier this week, the Government announced the next phase of its accelerated resource management reform programme, confirming that two new Bills will be introduced before the end of 2025 to replace the Resource Management Act 1991.
Property Council has welcomed the announcement, describing the direction of reform as “very positive” and closely aligned with long-standing advocacy from the property sector.
Chief Executive Leonie Freeman says the proposal represents the most significant planning overhaul in a generation.
“Going from more than 100 plans down to just 17 is hugely significant,” says Freeman. “A clearer, more consistent planning framework means many land uses will no longer require consents, saving time, reducing cost, and giving the development and investment community much-needed certainty.”
The reforms include several changes Property Council has championed over recent years, including:
Key wins for Property Council members
- Higher thresholds for regulation: Minor effects and subjective considerations such as private views, amenity and character will no longer delay development.
- National standardisation: Consistent rules for zones and common activities will reduce red tape and remove costly regional variation.
- Fewer consents: Activities with minimal environmental impact will no longer require consent, alleviating pressure on councils and improving development timelines.
- Planning Tribunal: A new, fast-track dispute resolution pathway will help resolve simple conflicts efficiently and at lower cost.
- Emphasis on property rights: The system strengthens certainty for property owners, lowering the risk of unnecessary litigation or delay.
“These reforms reflect a strong commitment to creating a planning system that is consistent, predictable and focused on enabling development,” Freeman says. “They have the potential to unlock significant development capacity and drive better outcomes for both the industry and our communities.”
However, Property Council notes that the success of the new system will depend heavily on execution.
“Future Ministerial changes could have major impacts on how the system operates, so durability and cross-party alignment will be important,” says Freeman. “Ultimately, it will be the detail and how it is implemented that matters.”
Property Council will continue engaging closely with Ministers and officials as draft legislation is released and will keep members informed as more information becomes available.
To join the Member Taskforce, contact Leonard Hong.
Contact | Leonard Hong
An accomplished economist and public policy professional, Leonard brings a global perspective and analytical edge to Property Council New Zealand’s advocacy team.
With a background spanning macroeconomics, international political economy, and urban development policy, Leonard’s career has taken him from the New Zealand Parliament to leading think tanks and industry bodies across the Asia-Pacific.
Passionate about evidence-based policy and the intersection of economics, cities, and governance, Leonard’s work supports Property Council’s mission to create thriving, well-designed communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.
